I P S G A

Information, Position, Speed, Gear and Acceleration (IPSGA)

Using this five phase system whilst driving will produce a higher degree of control whilst negotiating a hazard and give rise to a smoother and more efficient ride. The system has to be used in sequence

Keep looking well ahead, as far as the horizon if necessary and look out for an event change this could be anything that might change your speed or direction. Now consider if the change is going to result in a hazard for you as the driver, there are two main types of hazard 'Static' and 'Developing' examples of static hazards are bends, humps and humped bridges, crossings and changing road systems (dual to single etcetera), junctions and roundabouts, whereas developing hazards are more complex because the hazard itself my well be moving and unpredictable in either case IPSGA is used.

Information

The information phase is a continuous process like a never ending loop during this phase you note the type of event and start to process this information give yourself time to formulate an accurate assessment of the situation, is it static or developing? What is the situation of other road users around me and will I affect or be affected by them?
Get all the information from outside the vehicle front and back left and right. Having collected ALL the relevant information and processed it, start to plan using the next part of IPSGA Position. Information collection and assessment allows you to adapt the system to changes in road circumstances. Never make your decision process inflexible as half a second in driving terms is a long time so keep your planning flexible, decide on your next action if the circumstances change be prepared to re-run the system. Use your mirrors (MSM) at any appropriate point in the system.

Position

Using the information ask yourself am I in the correct position for this hazard? if not position correctly in a timely and safe manor. Use MSM (Mirror - Signal - Manoeuvre) to achieve this. The position, speed and gear phase of IPSGA may well over lap each other in differing degrees depending on the actual hazard.

Speed

Just before you complete the positioning adjust your speed for the gear change if necessary. Use accelerator or brake as necessary and avoid harsh braking and or skidding. Use forward planning and anticipation to ensure smooth steady acceleration or braking.

Gear

Select the appropriate gear for your speed and execution of the hazard. Avoid snatched gear changes by planning ahead.

Acceleration

Use the accelerator to maintain your speed and stability through the hazard. Having successfully negotiated the hazard increase your speed uniformly and smoothly at the appropriate point of exit.